i2, the region’s largest mobile provider and newly appointed distributor of Etisalat Misr products has signed an agreement with Egypt’s largest retail chain, Omar Afandy to expand i2’s retail network across the country and boost sales of Eitisalat products.
As a result of the partnership, i2 will open 40 branches within Omar Afandy’s 82-store retail portfolio by end of 2007. Omar Afandy’s strength lies in its reach across the country through strategic locations in Egypt’s largest and most popular malls and prominent neighborhoods. i2’s undisputed decision was largely influenced by its new role as an Etisalat Misr distributor, as well as the company’s continued desire to exceed set targets and expectations.
The decision between UAE-based Etisalat and Saudi-based i2 was finalized in February 2007 and made between Saleh El Abdouly, CEO of Etisalat Misr and Abdul Hameed Al Sunaid, CEO of i2 Group. In the short time since its appointment as official distributor for Etisalat products, which include pre and post paid mobile lines, bill payment and recharge cards, i2 has proven itself as a market leader despite its relatively new entry into the Egyptian market in 2004.
“In the first week post launch, we exceeded the forecasted sale of Etisalat products of 10 million Egyptian pounds,” stated Abdul Hameed Al Sunaid, CEO for i2 Group. Since then, Eitsalat Misr has witnessed a positive and growing demand from the Egyptian market for its lines and additional services.
i2 Egypt has also enjoyed tremendous success in the demanding North African country, with several recognitions from Nokia for its hard earned efforts. In May of 2007, i2 Egypt was named “best domestic newcomer” in the Middle East and Africa by Nokia. “Our reach and reputation in the market is what attracted Etisalat to i2; we are very pleased to have joined hands with Etisalat, and more importantly, to deliver on our promises,” stated Al Sunaid.
Working together for the first time, i2 and Etisalat have successfully entered a new market, and their efforts have been evident in the success of Etsialat products until now. “We hope the momentum keeps going and that both parties will continue to serve and service each of our customers,” concluded Al Sunaid.
